The convenor of this event Madan Mohan Sharma told India Today that Ravana was an outstanding politician and a highly learned Brahmin who was a worshipper of Lord Shiva.

He added that Ravana was being punished every year for a mistake he committed centuries ago.

Madan Mohan said that the Ramayana written by Goswami Tulsidas is a half account while the other half of the story has been kept in dark. Ravana belonged to the Saraswat sub-caste of Brahmins and so those who belong to this caste have decided to build a Ravana temple in Agra.

OPPOSITION FROM BRAHMINS

Social activist Vishal Sharma said that Hinduism was an ever-evolving religion and there was no dearth of strange traditions being practised in the name of religion in various parts of the country.

He further added that there were a lot of Brahmins who were opposed to the burning of Ravana's effigies as according to them, he was a learned Brahmin.

On worshipping Ravana, he said, "nobody would pose any objections, although if the worshippers decide to interfere with the celebrations of Dussehra, it could create law and order issues."

Do You Like This Story? Awesome! Now share the story Too bad. Tell us what you didn't like in the comments